The Americas Cup

The holder of the America`s Cup defends the Cup against qualified Yacht Clubs from around the world that challenge the holder. However the holder has the right to choose the location and rules, (within reason). The words "within reason" have caused many arguments as you can imagine when rules can be changed on a whim for the defending team to create an advantage over their competition. In 2014 the yachts length rule was 62ft and one year later 45ft termed as AC45 and the rule owned by the Golden Gate Yacht Club the defender.

The Hamilton Island Yacht Club in Australia was termed the "Challenger of Record" with Team Australia as challenger, financed by businessman Bob Oatley who owns Hamilton Island and the Rosemount winery. However a year later Team Australia withdrew from the event claiming the entry fee of $3M was too great, the "Challenger of Record" went to Luna Rossa who also withdrew its bid in protest of rule changes. All a little puzzling you may say but that is what happens in the realms of; Billionaires, big egos, big money, national pride and a passion to win this incredible event.

Yachts are now the domain of aero space engineers, using wind tunnels and space age materials. Ben Ainslie Racing sponsored by Range Rover employed Red Bull Technologies a leading Formula 1 team, Airbus became a partner with Oracle Team USA, and Cosworth a partner of Artemis Racing founded by businessman and sailor Torbjorn Tornqvis representing the Royal Swedish Yacht Club. Yachts from France, Japan, New Zealand, are also sailing in the Louis Vuitton Cup, the America`s Cup World Series so there are five teams competing to be the Challenger.

America`s Cup will take place between the defender Oracle Team USA, and the highest placed yacht in the Louis Vuitton Cup, the challenger

Location

Perched on Bermuda`s stunning south shore with miles of pink sand beaches, the luxurious Fairmont Southampton, Bermuda beach resort sits on nearly 100 acres, dotted with lush bougainvillea and towering coconut palms. Conveniently located in the mid-Atlantic, less than a two-hour flight from most east coast gateways; this Bermuda hotel is perfect for Atlantic vacations, getaways, meetings & events year-round.

Accommodations

Fairmont Southampton Bermuda hotel`s spacious guestrooms-many with sweeping water views-are richly appointed with private balconies, walk-in closets and marble bathrooms. For unsurpassed luxury and service reserve a room on the Fairmont Gold Floor, a hotel-within-a-hotel.

Dining

Fairmont Southampton has dining covered for even the most discerning palates with an impressive range of 10 restaurant options located in our Bermuda resort. Five of them are now available for online bookings on Open Table.

Bermuda

Pink sand on prestine beaches and clear iridescent Turquoise Ocean, with coral reefs protecting the island from high winds. There are Crystal Caves with stalactites and underground saltwater pools; this is just the start of the natural beauty that is Bermuda. Limestone cottages painted in sherbet-color hues, add to the allure of the island.

Other attractions include the Botanical Gardens and Masterworks Museum of Bermuda Art, the Bermuda Aquarium, Bermuda Underwater Exploration Institute and a Zoo. Play golf on courses as green as shamrocks with powdery pink sand traps. On the narrow island roads the speed limit is 20 mph and it is not possible to rent a car. You can rent a scooter or take a taxi as Bermuda is only 22 miles in length.

Of course you`re here for the grand finals of the America`s Cup and you need to be close to the action. The June date brings near to perfect wind conditions and Bermuda`s Great Sound is a natural amphitheatre for the America`s Cup boats. The America`s Cup Village is at the Royal Naval Dockyard, the center of the America`s Cup action.

The Island became home to the America`s Cup after stiff competition from San Diego, and Chicago. To secure the rights to the event, Bermuda paid $77M and is expected to bring $250M to the Island. It will certainly bring World-Wide attention to the idyllic Island.

Thursday, June 22:

Upon your arrival into L.F. Wade International Airport (BDA), formerly named Bermuda International Airport, you will be met and transferred to the Fairmont Princess. Spend the evening at your leisure.

Friday, June 23:

Enjoy the day relaxing or exploring the Island.

Saturday, June 24 - Sunday, June 25:

Following breakfast transfer to the Official Spectator Boat Viewing launch for races 5, 6 and 7, 8 of the 2017 America`s Cup. Late afternoon return to the hotel.

Monday, June 26:

Enjoy the day relaxing or exploring the Island.

Tuesday, June 27:

Following breakfast transfer to Bermuda International airport for your return flight home or continue your vacation.

Price Per Person

Price Per Person: $5,635.00 Single Use Supplement: $4,555.00

Price is per person, based on two persons sharing a room. Single supplement is an additional cost per room (for the entire tour) if traveling alone. Extra nights subject to hotel availability.